Run With Heart 5K Run/Walk

The Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon Series has earned its title as “America’s Toughest Road Marathon” by challenging runners with over 7,430 ft. in elevation change, more than any other road marathon in the U.S. This race is the ONLY marathon that runs along the famously scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, and proceeds from this non-profit event benefit the parkway and a dozen local charities every year. The full, half, relay and 10k all prove equally challenging yet rewarding on this mountainous course, and all runners are rewarded with a unique finishers’ medals, shirts and local craft beer at the festival-like finish in downtown Roanoke. For those who need even more than just extreme elevation change can run the course twice with the official Blue Ridge Double (sells out annually).

This race would not be possible without the support of our title sponsor, Foot Levelers.

This event is owned and operated by the Roanoke Outside Foundation whose mission to make outdoor activity and environmental stewardship a core component of our community’s lifestyle by promoting a “conservation through recreation” philosophy.

LewisGale's Joggin’ for Your Noggin with Rock Haven is a community event combining fitness, remembrance, and live music, all in support of Brain Injury Solutions and the survivors we serve. Both LewisGale's Joggin' for Your Noggin and Rock Haven are on April 25th with the 5k and Honorary Walk taking place at 9 am along the Roanoke River Greenway and Rock Haven starting at 5 pm at Black Dog Salvage's Dog Bowl. This event offers multiple ways to participate and make an impact.

Rock Haven is a heartfelt music event and celebration with good food and fun. Information about bands, food trucks, and beverages can be found on their website at www.RockHavenVA.com

Participants can choose one of the following:

• Timed 5K run

• Timed 5k run + Rock Haven

• Honorary Walk honoring those affected by brain injury

• Honorary Walk + Rock Haven

• Virtual 5K or Honorary Walk for supporters near and far

• You can also simply sign up for just Rock Haven at www.RockHavenVA.com

All proceeds from the event go toward providing free case management services to brain injury survivors, helping them access essential resources and achieve greater independence.

Whether you run, walk, or rock, LewisGale's Joggin’ for Your Noggin with Rock Haven is a meaningful way to move, honor, and make a difference for those living with brain injury.

Check out www.BISolutions.org for more information about Brain Injury Solutions (BIS).

1 in 30 people in Virginia have a disability because of a brain injury. Some causes include traffic accidents, falls, heart attacks, strokes, sports injuries, or illness. While many people receive good care in the hospital, most find once they are home, they lack supporting resources. This is even more true for the many who already have limited means.

Fortunately, BIS is here to help turn tragedy into hope! Not only is BIS here to fill the huge need of support during a challenging time, BIS provides this support free of charge for survivors of brain injury and their families. This happens thanks to the support from the state of Virginia, localities, organizations, individual donors, and event participants such as yourself!

Event to happen rain or shine. There will be no make up date or refunds if the race is cancelled due to weather.

Lyme disease is a debilitating illness that affects millions of people worldwide. This disease can cause a wide range of symptoms, including fatigue, joint pain, and neurological problems. Unfortunately, Lyme disease is often misdiagnosed, leading to delayed treatment and a longer recovery time.

If you or someone you know has been affected by Lyme disease, we invite you to join us in our efforts to raise awareness and funds for this important cause. Our Lyme Disease Fundraiser is a 5K event that will bring together individuals and families from across the community to support those who this illness has impacted.

Whether you are a seasoned runner or just looking to get out and enjoy some fresh air and support from the sidelines, our Lyme Disease Fundraiser is the perfect opportunity to make a difference.

We’re racing for a cause near and dear to our hearts; Lyme disease awareness. We are a passionate community of Lyme disease warriors fighting for better treatment, testing, and understanding for those living with chronic Lyme disease.

🛡️ Our Mission

💚 Increase resources and awareness for this complex disease

💚 Create opportunities for education and understanding

💚 Advocate for improved testing and medical care for Lyme disease patients

🎉 Come for the Fun!

Whether you’re running, walking, cheering, or just coming for the food and community, this event is for everyone. Put on your green, bring your friends and family, and run like a warrior with us! 💚

Two options this year!

Live Race: May 23, 2026 at 8:30 AM. We will hold a live race this year. More up-to-date instructions will be forthcoming closer to race day to make sure everyone is safe. First second and third place awards will be given out for the top three male and females in the race as well as the top male and female in these age divisions: 0-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75+.

Virtual 5K Run and Walk: You can run/walk or whatever between May 23 and July 30, 2026 for 3.1 mile or 5K and get our t-shirt and finisher medal. The first 100 finishers for either the 5k will receive a finisher medal this year!! Just send in your electronic indication of a finished 5K!

T-Shirt guarantee deadline is May 11! After that, as people sign up, t-shirts will be assigned per the selection you make while registering until each size is given away.

Packet Pick Up: May 22 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at First Baptist Church of Roanoke, 321 Marshall Ave SW • Roanoke VA 24016 and 7:30-8:15 AM at Fallon Park, Roanoke VA May 23, 2026.

Keystone Community Center Weather/Safety Policy

Living in the Roanoke Valley can present some interesting weather issues. Participant, sponsor and staff safety is our main concern during our event. Any unsafe weather/event/action that affects anyone during our event will precipitate action that reduces the risk for all involved. Several options will be available to take the correct action considering weather and safety related issues.

Some options are: Cancellation of the race, delay in the start of the race, cancellation/delay of the awards and after race activities

The director of the race in consultation with emergency services personnel will make the determination if one of these options should be taken. Due to the race route being an out and back, a race official on a bicycle will be the mode of notification for any official decision during the race. Race officials at the start/finish area will make announcements at that location.

None of this should keep any participant from making clear personal choices to keep themselves safe. Any unsafe conditions should be communicated to race officials as soon as possible.